Yesterday, I commented about how in some ways, the States is behind on the “green” curve. It would probably be nearly impossible, but one of the best things our country could have done to save on gas and emissions is to construct roundabouts instead of intersections. Traffic never stops in a roundabout, and therefore vehicles aren’t sitting at idle, waiting for a green light. It would also largely reduce the number of traffic accidents, since a majority of them happen in intersections.
Many Americans are intimidated by roundabouts though. It takes a little getting use to, but you just go with the flow and, given the opportunity, I’m sure everyone would be a “roundabout advocate” like myself.
That trip we made to the States two years ago reminded me of how much I appreciate the roundabout. Sitting there, at a red light, is truly aggravating. Especially if one gets stuck in a string of one after the other. I also truly believe that replacing intersections with roundabouts would largely reduce the amount of road rage.
Naturally, the problem is that replacing the country’s intersections is expensive, a waste of material, resources and gas (running construction equipment, hauling materials...). But as our roads deteriorate, and as the need arises to rebuild a road, why not replace them as streets need repair? Bit by bit, we could reduce road rage, emissions, traffic accidents, and electricity (from operating stop lights). As a matter of fact, some parts of the country are already doing this, and I am pleased to see this sort of progress!
Today’s tip: Write to your city officials and request that they begin (or expand upon their existing) roundabout construction program.
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